The Association of Independent Corrugated Converters (AICC) created the FirstPak program in response to members' concerns about protecting and expanding their corrugated market share. FirstPak is the North American "brand name" used to identify independent corrugated converters operating in joint selling entities serving multiple-location customers. By aligning themselves with other AICC members, independents can better serve multi-location customers, target multi-location accounts and compete for business now largely controlled by some of the largest corrugated products companies.

FirstPak will also provide an easier way for corrugated users to identify and utilize independents for all their corrugated needs. In short, the FirstPak alliance will enable independents to become better partners with their fellow independents and better suppliers to their customers.

The FirstPak program is based on the provisions of a Business Review letter granted to AICC by the Department of Justice in December 1998. The same basic model was then approved in Canada by the Canadian Competition Bureau in June 1999. This letter set forth a series of legal and operating guidelines for the program, and this brochure is designed to help explain and clarify these procedures. It is important to note that the Department of Justice Business Review Letter, while outlining one set of guidelines for joint selling entities, does not make other arrangements illegal or void.

With the formation of FirstPak AICC promotes the value of doing business with independent corrugated converters.

If you have any questions or comments about the FirstPak program, please contact AICC headquarters toll-free at 877-836-2422 or email firstpak@aiccbox.org.